San Francisco Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals

It can sometimes be hard to find San Francisco accommodations that will accept pets but not anymore. With the help of Owner Direct Vacation Rentals software, our system helps you search for all available San Francisco vacation rentals that will accept pets during your specified dates. We have many pet friendly lodging options to choose from such as those in Bernal Heights, Fishermans Wharf, Haight Ashbury, The Landmark, Lower Haight. As each owner sets their own pet policy, there are many owners that do allow dogs, cats and even other critters to stay at their vacation rental home in San Francisco.

We have 1 pet friendly vacation rentals in San Francisco resorts. For your next holiday or vacation, consider bringing your pet and staying at a vacation rental. From condos to villas to homes, there is an accommodation option for every type of group. Owner Direct's friendly and responsive customer service and detailed website can make finding that perfect pet friendly rental a breeze.

This suite has everything you could want and more. The living room has beautiful wood floors, a cozy rug, a french sliding door that leads to the patio and garden, and beautiful windows overlooking the view of the nice patio and garden.
When you are ready for some entertainment, the living room features a 42' Samsung LCD with Comcast Digital Cable and a 15' HP Laptop with Printer stocked with paper connected to Comcast High Speed Internet with Wi-Fi throughout the unit.
The fully equipped kitchen provides you with an easy and enjoyable cooking experience featuring granite countertops, a side by side fridge, microwave, stove, toaster, coffee maker, and everything you need to cook delicious meals.
There is comfortable sleeping for 4 people in the unit. Sleep in comfort on the queen size bed that has two night stands and nice lighting in the bedroom along with a 27' TV. There is also a double sofa bed in the living room. Extra bed linens are also included.
Washing your clothes is a breeze in your private laundry with a front loading washer and a separate large dryer. Extra laundry detergent and an Iron is also included.
The bathroom features a shower / tub combo. Extra Towels, Soap, Shampoo, and a Hair Dryer is also included.
Relax and watch the sun rise over mountain peaks from the window of this cozy garden suite. Whether you enjoy fresh power runs in the morning or simply taking in the view from above, you'll always feel the warm energy from the garden. Our backyard has many beautiful exotic San Francisco plants that have been here for more then 100 years, along with peacefully moving water from the wishing well and fish pond which brings you the feeling of calming energy and relaxation.
The apartment is located on the ground level of a 3 level building. We live on the 3rd level, so just knock on our door if you should need anything during your stay and we will do our best to accommodate you. You will enjoy beautiful garden, where you can use our herbs from our garden right to your table.(Rosemary and others)
The property is well served by the MUNI's bus lines to Downtown and other area of San Francisco (15 minutes by public buses). It is a 5-10 minute walking distance to the Golden Gate Park, (by Stow Lake, De Young Museum, Science Academy Museum, Botanical Gardens, Japanese Tea Gardens and more. 2 blocks to N- Judah Line and very close to restaurants, shops, bars. Lincoln Golf Course is 5-7min walking distance. Just a few blocks away is the Irving St strip lined up with Cafes, Restaurants of every cuisine, Bars, Banks, Grocery Stores, a Pharmacy, a Post Office and so much more.
You can easily reach the airport or any other further destination using public transportation (BART and MUNI) Baker Beach, Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point, New Chinatown 10-15 minutes by car / taxi or MUNI to the Castro / SOMA area, Twin Peaks, Lombard St, The Crookedest Street, Baseball Park, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Chinatown, / Moscone Center, Ocean Beach, Marina, South Beach, Embarcadero, East Bay, and much more.
Parking: There is a driveway available for loading/unloading. San Francisco is, in general, not an easy-parking city. However, by SF standards, our neighbourhood is considered to be a relatively easy neighbourhood for parking, which means that guests can typically find a space within a 1/2 block from the unit.

This reasonably priced wine country house is located in Sonoma, California. The property boasts two acres with a one acre vineyard. Casually appointed, this home has all the conveniences to make your stay comfortable. Located one hour north of San Francisco, It is only a 30 minute drive to Marin and Napa Counties, one hour to Mendocino County and within ten minutes drive to to the historic town square of Sonoma. Situated at 1100 feet elevation on Sonoma Mountain, with privacy, this one story, three bedroom, three full bathrooms, 2400 square foot house has views of the hills, valley and bay. It provides the renter a wine country feel with a vineyard and a full outdoor cooking area.
There's lots to do if you like wine or the wine country style. Sonoma is famous for its wine, food, cheese and bread. You could spend each day of your stay visiting a new area in Sonoma County and still not see it all. Visit world class wineries in Sonoma and Napa, walk around the Sonoma Historic Town Square, see the giant redwoods, or travel to small quaint towns and villages along the Sonoma Coast. There is always something going on in Sonoma. You can dine at wonderful restaurants or shop at gourmet grocery stores that provide an array of options for dining and entertainment.
The house comes complete with everything you need to enjoy being by yourself or for entertaining occasional guests. The monthly price incldues cleaning, linens changed and a gardener. Full property video available by request via e-mail.

Natural beauty abounds at this airy 2BR/2BA home, with the Russian River directly out your back door and the Pacific Ocean just beyond. Situated on the Sonoma Coast, you will enjoy ocean views. Close to Jenner.. Natural beauty abounds at this airy 2BR/2BA home, with the Russian River directly out your back door and the Pacific Ocean just beyond. Situated on the Sonoma Coast, you will enjoy ocean views. Close to Jenner.
ABOUT THE HOUSE
This home is a real show-stopper. A wall of windows overlooks the Russian River and bathes the space in natural light. Light oak floors and exposed ceiling beams create a warm ambiance.
Whether you’re a gourmet chef or a chef’s helper, you’ll love the open kitchen. Black granite counters contrast nicely with the white cabinets, which are stocked with all the essential cookware and dishes.
When dinner is served, sit down at the seven-person table to enjoy the meal and the view. Get a front row seat to take in the vistas on the upper wraparound deck with four-person patio table, gas grill, and Adirondack chair.
Casual ocean-inspired furnishings outfit the living room, where you can lounge on the couch and love seat. Watch your favorite shows on the 31” flat screen TV, as you warm up in front of the wood-burning stove. Built-in shelves house all kinds of movies, books, and board games for guests to use. The main floor also has a full bath with walk-in tiled shower.
Downstairs, you’ll find another inviting sitting area with a futon.
Fall sound asleep in the master bedroom with queen sleigh bed, massive dresser, 24” flat screen TV, and pretty stained-glass window. Sliding glass doors lead out to the lower balcony with more river views and a hammock.
The second bedroom also has a queen bed, 24” flat screen TV, and closet. Head out to the lower balcony shared with the master bedroom and take an afternoon siesta on the hammock. The two bedrooms share the second full bathroom with tub/shower combination.
A door on the lower level leads you out and down to the lowest patio with hot tub and additional seating. It also provides access down to the river bank.
Amenities include a washer and dryer. The home has two parking spots in the garage with room for one more in the driveway.
THE LOCATION
When the cook takes the night off, the River’s End Restaurant and Bar (a 6-minute walk) is just the place for a warm sit-down dinner and cocktail. The quaint town of Jenner is just 4 minutes down the road. There, you’ll find Cafe Aquatica for a cup of joe and the Jenner C Store to stock up on groceries and supplies.
Take an afternoon drive up or down Highway 1, stopping in the small towns along the way. You’ll enjoy incredible vistas along the Pacific coast.
Full of unspoiled beauty, the Sonoma Coast State Park (5 minutes) includes several beaches that extend for 13 miles from Bodega Bay to the Russian River. Several access points off Highway 1 lead down to the coast. The Sonoma Coast Trail connects the beaches, where you can search for shells, go fishing, or have a picnic.
Cross over the Russian River into Bridgehaven, where you’ll find the historic Le Chateau McEden (5 minutes) and the Russian River Vista Point (5 minutes). You’re also less than 30 minutes from Sonoma wine country, bursting with beautiful vineyards and boutique wineries.

Natural beauty and amazing Sonoma wineries surround you at this studio guest house with 1BR in Glen Ellen. You’re 10 minutes from historic downtown Sonoma. Sleeps 2.. Situated on 10 private acres in rural Glen Ellen, this studio is surrounded by rolling hills and renowned wineries. The grounds are lush with mature oak trees and afford spectacular sunset views.
Drive 10 minutes in any direction and you’ll come upon one of the more than 20 wineries within a 10-mile radius. Downtown Sonoma, full of culture and history, is 10 minutes away.
Inside, the home features exclusive furnishings collected by the homeowner, a professional in the luxury furniture industry.
Out back, cool off in the shared pool and soak your cares away in the hot tub.
ABOUT THE RENTAL
Stroll the 10 acres, walking in the shade of the mature oak trees and enjoying the surrounding rolling hills. A lookout on the property is the perfect spot for sunset viewings. The flagstone patio has seating for four and verdant views.
Vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sliding doors make the main living space open, airy, and bright. In the living room, find a spot on the sectional couch to watch the 55” flat screen TV. Contemporary built-in shelving houses books for guests to peruse.
Start your day with a cup of coffee in the kitchenette, which is equipped with an espresso machine, Keurig, microwave, toaster oven, and full-size fridge. Enjoy light meals and snacks at the two-person bistro table in the living room area.
Sleek gray cabinets surround the two built-in desks, a nice quiet spot for checking email.
When it’s time for bed, pull down the queen-size Murphy bed in the living room area.
A full bath has a glass-door tiled shower.
Guests also have access to a shared pool, hot tub, and parking for four cars in the spacious driveway.
THE LOCATION
Part of the Sonoma Valley, this locale puts you within 10 miles of 20 celebrated wineries, including Hamel Family Wines, Petroni Vineyards, and Amapola Creek Vineyards and Winery.
Sonoma is also home to the Sonoma State Park, Mission San Francisco Solano State Park, and the Sonoma Raceway. Add to your winery checklist and visit the numerous wineries and tasting rooms in the downtown area.
Feel the need for speed Drive McLaren sports cars and learn performance and defensive driving techniques at the Simraceway Performance Driving Center.
Downtown Sonoma is just a 10-minute drive away, full of dining and shopping options. Try local favorites like El Dorado Kitchen, LaSalette, and The Red Grape.

Dazzling inside and out, this 3BR/2BA Dillon Beach house boasts panoramic ocean views and elegant finishes. Part of an upscale neighborhood just a short walk to the beach, it’s ideal for large families or groups traveling together. Sleeps 10.. Uncork your favorite vintage and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from this 3BR/2BA Dillon Beach home overlooking sea and sand from its hillside perch.
Located in an upscale neighborhood, the home is surrounded by other desirable properties. West Coast meets East Coast, with an exterior reminiscent of traditional Cape Cod cottages.
The home sleeps 10 comfortably, making it great for large families, groups of friends, or smaller families traveling together. High-end touches and attention to detail make this place perfect for your next Sonoma area vacation. Plus, it’s just a short walk to the sun, sand, and surf of the beach.
ABOUT THE HOUSE
Contemporary cool meets comfortable chic in the upper-level living room with paneled cathedral ceilings, a tile accent wall, and a wood stove. An L-shaped sectional couch and three armchairs offer seating when you feel like reading one of the many books on the floating shelves. Two leather lounge chairs sit right in front of a picture window, giving you a front-row seat to the ocean views.
A spiral staircase leads up to a loft area with a 50” flat screen TV and futon for sitting or sleeping for extra guests.
White and bright, the kitchen makes cooking for your group a pleasure with plenty of prep space on the granite counters, a gas range, and cabinets stocked with essential cookware. Gather around the haute eight-person dining table, which also affords views of the water and is open to the living room and kitchen.
Out on the deck, the Pacific Ocean fills your field of vision. Two patio tables offer plenty of seating for dining al fresco and the gas grill is great for cookouts. Open the garage door and let the ocean breezes flow through as you play a little ping pong.
Let the sounds of the nearby ocean lull you into a deep slumber in the upper-level master bedroom, which has a California king bed and two closets. The master bath is divided by a pocket door—one side features a vanity and toilet, the other a vanity and tub/shower combination.
On the lower level, navy blue and white bedding outfits the full and twin beds in the second bedroom. The room also has a dresser, desk, and large picture windows offering an ocean vista. In the lower-level third bedroom, guests get a king bed decorated with soothing green bedding and a large window offering ocean views. A full bath on the lower level has a shower with glass door and heat lamps.
Other great amenities include parking for four cars and a washer and dryer.
THE LOCATION
Before setting up your beach umbrella, order a cup of joe and a hearty breakfast at the Dillon Beach Cafe (13-minute walk). Then, make the short walk down to the beach for a day in the surf and sand. Try your hand at windsurfing or sea kayaking, search for shells, or just soak up the sun. Take an afternoon to explore Bodega Bay (20 minutes away), where you can take a horseback ride on the beach, play golf on one of three local courses, and go zip lining.

A modern take on Sonoma Valley living, this 2BR/2.5BA private luxury home is minutes from local wineries. Enjoy views of rolling hills, plus high-end furnishings, curated art, a jetted tub, and a pool with water feature. Sleeps 4.. Situated in rural Glen Ellen in the heart of Sonoma Valley’s renowned wine country, this architecturally stimulating 2BR/2.5BA house capitalizes on abundant California sunshine with large windows that flood the home with light.
Boasting luxury furnishings and finishes, as well as curated artwork, this home is both welcoming and design savvy. A white-washed kitchen, large wraparound porch, jetted tub, and natural stone swimming pool with waterfall are among the memorable features.
Located near 20+ renowned wineries, this private property offers both a secluded setting and an address just moments from everything you want to see, including downtown Sonoma—a 10-minute drive away.
ABOUT THE HOUSE
Pass through the front gate to find this modern 2BR/2.5BA home with a wraparound porch. An open-concept living area with large windows overlooking the valley set the tone for a memorable stay.
A modern kitchen features an island with five-burner chef’s stove, high-end stainless steel appliances, and upscale amenities that include a juicer, coffeemaker, and margarita maker. This well-equipped space has everything you’ll need to prepare meals and entertain in style.
Sit down to meals at the rustic wood table with seating for six and jaw-dropping panoramas of Sonoma Valley. The living room is adorned with conversation-inducing artwork, two sofas, a 55” flat screen TV, and a wood-burning fireplace.
There’s a powder room and mud/laundry room with front loading washer/dryer off of the main living area.
Upstairs, the en-suite master bedroom overlooks the living room and has a king-size bed with luxury linens and a flat screen TV. The bathroom is a peaceful retreat with a modern double vanity and natural stone shower with dual detachable rain showerheads and windows framing the sun-dappled yard.
Descend the stairs from the living room to reach the sunken en-suite guest room with a queen-size bed, desk, and 55” flat screen TV. Step into the sleek bathroom to find another walk-in stone shower with a detachable rain showerhead, a dual vanity, and makeup mirror. Glass doors in the guest room provide outdoor access.
French doors off the living area lead to the deck, where you’ll find an infrared two-burner grill and a covered seating area for four. Walk down to the natural stone area below to cool off in the shared pool with water feature. Or catch some rays in comfort on one of the four lounge chairs. Later, take a short stroll to the lookout to watch the sun set over this remarkable 10-acre compound.
Parking is provided for up to four vehicles.
THE LOCATION
This is a truly exceptional location. Perched above Sonoma Valley near more than 20 renowned wineries, your home is just 10 minutes from downtown Sonoma. Explore nearby tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants, as well as fascinating museums and historical sites.

Step into a classical landscape painting with breathtaking views of the Russian River Valley. This classic 3BR, 2BA Craftsman house sleeps 7, and with warm architectural details, a hot tub, sauna, and redwood decks, it's a retreat to soothe the soul.. Step into a classical landscape painting with breathtaking views of the Russian River Valley. This classic 3BR, 2BA Craftsman house sleeps 7, and with warm architectural details, a hot tub, sauna, and redwood decks, it's a retreat to soothe the soul.
INSIDE THE RENTAL
A winding driveway with parking for 2 vehicles leads up to the home. Take the flight of stone garden steps past tiered landscaped gardens.
There’s a leather armchair and office nook on entry. The upstairs living room and kitchen are flooded with natural light from glass doors leading onto a wide stone-flagged deck with alfresco dining for 4.
Inside, sink into leather recliners or snuggle on the couch as the wood burning fireplace warms you. There’s a 42” Panasonic TV with a Blu-ray/DVD player and a well-stocked entertainment cabinet.
A long wooden table seats 6 next to the spacious kitchen, where you’ll find small and large stainless steel appliances and acres of counter-top, including an island.
Another set of doors opens to the back deck, which has a large outdoor table for 4 and a propane grill. Stairs take you to the hot tub, where you can luxuriate among beautiful natural views. The deck also has a lower level with lounge chairs.
Downstairs, the first bathroom has a charming claw foot tub and adjoins the 2nd bedroom, which features a queen-size bed and deck access.
The next bathroom is the en suite master, boasting a huge tiled walk-in shower. In the master bedroom, find a Cal king bed, comfy armchair, and a private balcony—the perfect spot to share a glass of wine as the sun goes down. A 26” Samsung TV with AppleTV and a DVD player is hosted within a cupboard. There’s a private seating area in the master, and there's deck access.
Another flight of stairs leads down to the lower level, where you’ll find the 3rd bedroom. A queen-size bed and extra twin-size daybed are overlooked by a 32” Samsung wall-mounted TV. A private sauna awaits around the corner.
THE LOCATION
Get away from it all in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country. Relax and unwind among glorious views of the Russian River, or drive 12 minutes to the ocean, where you can head to the spectacular sands of Goat Rock State Beach.
1 mile up the road you’ll find a charming cluster of cafes, along with the Quercia Gallery for art lovers. And of course, you can take your pick of myriad local wineries dotting the surrounding small towns.

Get swept away in the romance of this 3BR, 3BA modern mountain home between Napa and Sonoma valleys Resplendent, spacious rooms with contemporary touches. Expansive deck overlooking 4 picturesque acres, nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains. Sleeps 8.. Get swept away in the romance of this 3BR, 3BA modern mountain home between Napa and Sonoma valleys Resplendent, spacious rooms with contemporary touches. Expansive deck overlooking 4 picturesque acres, nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains. Sleeps 8.
ABOUT THE HOUSE
Surrounded by mountains and richly landscaped, this house is a true retreat. A cedar deck wraps from the front door around the side of the house. Open your favorite vintage and relax in the lounge area or around the 4-person and 8-person teak patio tables, enjoying scenic views of the woods.
Step through the front door and into the sun-drenched open living space. Whether you’re a gourmet chef or just a proficient veggie chopper, the kitchen—with granite counters, oak cabinets, gas cooktop, blender, and trash compactor—makes cooking a pleasure.
Sit down for meals at the spacious, rustic dining table with room for 8. Sliding glass doors lead out to the wraparound deck.
On cool nights, the living room’s centerpiece gas fireplace creates a warm ambiance for lounging on the couch and 2 arm chairs. Your favorite movies and TV shows look even better on the high-definition flat-screen TV with DirectTV and surround sound.
The master bedroom invites you to completely unwind. It is furnished with a king bed, sitting area, and sliding doors out to a private balcony. The master en suite bathroom boasts a deep, jetted tub with rain showerhead and double vanity.
Generous picture windows let in lots of natural light in the 2nd bedroom, which has 2 twin beds. Enjoy the 15” rain showerhead in the brick-tiled, walk-in shower. There are 2 heated towel bars and doors to the 2nd bedroom and the main hallway.
An office area is tucked off the long main hallway, offering a queen-sized sleeper sofa for extra guests and desk to get a little work done.
Lounge in the lower-level living room, outfitted with chic decor, a trendy sectional couch, 40” flat-screen TV, and gas fireplace. Out on the lower deck, you can relax in the hot tub or devour the latest bestseller in the lounger.
The 3rd bedroom on the lower level provides a quiet and private space, and has a king bed, sitting area, and large window. Its en suite bathroom pampers with a deep, jetted tub with showerhead, heated towel rack, and direct access to the lower deck.
Behind the 3rd bedroom sits the laundry area with side-by-side washer and dryer and laundry sink.
Note: Premium linens provided throughout all bedrooms.
THE LOCATION
Nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains, the home offers easy access to both Sonoma and Napa Valleys. Tour the exquisite vineyards, tasting some of the finest wines in the world. You don’t have to go far to find vino to sample—Spann Vineyards and Lookout Ridge Winery are just down the road, less than 5 minutes from the house.
Head into downtown Glen Ellen (9 minutes) for a bite to eat at one of the delicious restaurants that include Fig, Glen Ellen Inn, and London Lodge Saloon.
Natural beauty abounds in area parks such as Sonoma Valley Regional Park (12 minutes) and Bouverie Preserve (8 minutes).
You’re just over an hour from San Francisco if you want to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz.
Sonoma County Regulations
Max occupancy 8
Max Parking 6
No amplified outdoor music anytime
Quiet hours 10pm - 7am

Offering a fantastic location in downtown Sonoma, this fully remodeled 2BR/1BA cottage is a short stroll from eateries, fine dining, shops, and parks. Socialize in the large backyard with a dining table and fire pit. Minutes to wineries. Sleeps 4.. See the best of Sonoma from an unbeatable downtown location at this fully remodeled 2BR cottage.
All leases require a minimum 31-day term. Quiet hours 10pm - 7am.
Walk minutes to casual eateries, fine dining, local shops, and leafy parks. Stroll among historic buildings, tasting rooms, and restaurants at Sonoma Plaza—the heartbeat of downtown. Or hop in the car and drive minutes to one of countless exceptional wineries.
Spend time relaxing in this inviting home with modern furnishings, spacious bedrooms, and an open floor plan. A large fenced backyard with a dining table is perfect for al fresco dining, while beautiful string lights and a fire pit let you enjoy evenings outdoors long after sunset.
Explore the best that Northern California has to offer. You’re just one hour from San Francisco, 30 minutes from Napa, and 45 minutes from the coast. In between, you’ll find hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback rides, and off-road adventures.
ABOUT THE HOUSE
One of the true highlights of this home awaits outdoors. A beautiful backyard offers a private retreat to chat, unwind, and dine al fresco. Fire up the gas grill, then serve sizzling steaks and fresh salads at the outdoor dining table seating six. Turn on the string lights, open a bottle of wine, and gather around the glow of the wood-burning fire pit.
Inside, there’s plenty of room to sprawl out in a spacious living room with a sleeper sofa, love seat, sofa chair, and 50” wall-mounted TV.
It’s easy to chat with the chef in the adjacent kitchen. Fresh and contemporary, this light-filled cooking space features white marble countertops and stainless-steel appliances including a six-burner gas stove.
Gather for meals at the wooden table with seating for six. In the mornings, perch at the three-seat breakfast bar and dig into waffles with fresh coffee.
When you’re ready to tuck in, you can take your pick from two spacious bedrooms. Retreat to the comfort of the master bedroom, furnished with a queen-size bed, 42” wall-mounted TV, and a sitting chair. The second bedroom features a queen-size bed, 50” wall-mounted TV, sitting chair, and large closet.
The sunny bathroom has a tub/shower combination.
There is parking for two cars in the driveway.
THE LOCATION
Shops, groceries and restaurants are practically on your doorstep. Walk 2 minutes to Cafe Scooteria for fresh coffee, or 6 minutes for pastries and gourmet sandwiches at Crisp Bake Shop.
In the evenings, stroll 2 minutes to Mamma Tanino's where their Sicilian-born chef serves up classic Italian dishes. Prefer to cook at home. Walk 2 minutes to find ingredients for dinner at Sonoma Market.
You’re also minutes away from local parks, including Maxwell Farms Regional Park (a 4-minute drive) and Montini Open Space Preserve (2 minutes). For more fun in the sun, walk 12 minutes to the historic Sonoma Plaza.
A trip to Sonoma wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of the region’s fabulous wineries. You’ll find numerous options minutes from home, including Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery - a 4-minute drive away.

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San Francisco News and Events

San Francisco Festivals

Bay to Breakers (May): For almost a century, thousands have flocked to San Francisco for this annual event. On their way from Bay to Ocean Beach's breaks, runners begin near the Bay Bridge (in downtown San Francisco) and proceed down Howard, Hayes and Fell streets serenaded by onlookers blasting inspirational tunes and sipping on screwdrivers and other spiked concoctions. The homestretch is a downhill jaunt through Golden Gate Park where organizers hold a costume contest. The 12k race ends with "Footstock," a festival with music and activities at Ocean Beach.

San Francisco Waterfront Festival (July): An annual San Francisco waterfront Independence Day party that unfailingly delivers brilliant fireworks over the Bay, live entertainment as well as food, arts and crafts. 12-9pm, fireworks begin around 9pm.

Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival
(September): Sample the sinful fruits of chocolatiers like Ghirardelli and others in the 8th Annual Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival. Admission to this San Francisco festival is free, but five chocolate tasting samples require a $6 ticket.

10 Things Not to Miss in San Francisco
http://www.sanfrancisco.travel/article/10-things-not-miss-san-francisco

1. The Golden Gate Bridge, the most famous bridge in the world, manages to impress even the most experienced travelers with its stunning 1.7-mile span. Approximately 120,000 automobiles drive across it every day. A pedestrian walkway also allows the crossing on foot, and bikes are allowed on the western side. The Golden Gate Bridge is said to be one of the most photographed things on Earth.

2. Cable cars have been transporting people around San Francisco since the late 19th century. The cars run on tracks and are moved by an underground cable on three routes. Their familiar bells can be heard ringing from blocks away. Tickets ($5) may be purchased at the cable car turnarounds at the ends of each route. Each one-way ride will provide spectacular views of the city’s celebrated hills as well as exhilarating transportation.

3. Alcatraz, the notorious former prison, is located on an island of the same name in the middle of San Francisco Bay. Some of the United States’ most notorious criminals were incarcerated there. Though several tried, no inmate ever made a successful escape from “The Rock.” The prison was closed in the 1960’s and stories about Alcatraz are legendary. A visit to Alcatraz today is fascinating. Recorded cell-house tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about the prison as they explore the buildings and grounds. To reach the island, take an Alcatraz Cruises ferry from Pier 43. Advance reservations are recommended, 415-981-ROCK (7625).

4. Fisherman’s Wharf is also home to PIER 39, a festive waterfront marketplace that is one of the city’s most popular attractions. A community of California sea lions has taken up residence on the floats to the west of the pier and visitors line the nearby railing to watch their antics. From there it’s a short walk to the Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and the famous crab vendors selling walk-away crab and shrimp cocktails.

5. Union Square is the place for serious shoppers. Major departments stores and the most exclusive designer boutiques line streets like Post, Sutter, Geary, Grant, Stockton and Powell. The Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre houses the largest Bloomingdale's outside of New York and the second largest Nordstrom in the U.S.

6. North Beach, the city’s Italian quarter, isn’t a beach at all. It’s a neighborhood of romantic European-style sidewalk cafes, restaurants and shops centered near Washington Square along Columbus and Grant avenues. The beautiful Church of Saints Peter and Paul is a beloved landmark. Coit Tower atop Telegraph Hill offers a splendid vantage point for photos of the bridges and the Bay. Inside the tower, floor-to-ceiling murals painted in the 1930s depict scenes of early San Francisco.

7. The entrance to Chinatown at Grant Avenue and Bush Street is called the "Dragon's Gate." Inside are 24 blocks of hustle and bustle, most of it taking place along Grant Avenue, the oldest street in San Francisco. This city within a city is best explored on foot; exotic shops, renowned restaurants, food markets, temples and small museums comprise its boundaries. Visitors can buy ancient potions from herb shops, relax and enjoy a "dim sum" lunch or witness the making of fortune cookies.

8. Dining in San Francisco is an attraction in itself. Known as America’s best restaurant city, San Francisco chefs excel at combining the freshest local ingredients, authentic international flavors and a touch of creative genius. Choose your cuisine – Chinese, Japanese, French, Italian, Spanish, Moroccan, Indian, Malaysian, Mexican, Greek, Russian or “fusion,” a combination of any or all of these influences.

9. Nightlife in San Francisco is a constantly changing scene. The “hottest” clubs currently are in the South of Market and Mission districts, with live and recorded rock and Latin music. Jazz, blues, swing and “oldies” music can be found all over town. For a complete list of nightlife options.

10. A visit to San Francisco would not be complete without a cultural experience. The city is home to internationally recognized symphony, opera and ballet companies. Playwrights such as Sam Shepherd and Tom Stoppard introduce their works in San Francisco and avant-garde theatre and dance companies dot the city. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Asian Art Museum, the de Young Museum, the Palace of the Legion of Honor and other museums and galleries are devoted to the finest of classical and contemporary arts. San Francisco is also home to the California Academy of Sciences - the only place on the planet with an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural history museum, and a 4-story rainforest all under one roof.